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I live in England and want to go university to become a paramedic or Doctor. My intention is to help the ummah escpecially our muslim brothers and sisters living in hardship.

The tuition fees for university is £9250 per year. It will take a minimum of 5 years to become a doctor or 3 years to become a paramedic. I want to help the ummah in the best way possible. However, i cannot afford the money so my question is:

Is it permissable for me to take loans with interest on them to pay for my university?

Answer

In the Name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.

As-salaamu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullaahi wa-barakaatuh.

Your desire to help the ummah is praiseworthy. However, it is not permissible to commit a wrong to do a praiseworthy cause. It is not permissible to take interest bearing loans[1], especially when cheaper universities and alternative careers are available. You may consider applying for financial aid if that it is available to you.

Translation: “O you who believe, fear Allaah and give up what still remains of interest if you are true believers. But if you do not (give it up), then be informed of the declaration of war from Allaah and His Messenger. However, if you repent, for you is your capital. Neither wrong, nor be wronged. (Al-Baqarah v.278-279)

Translation: Sayyiduna Jaabir (Radhiyallaahu ‘anh) narrates that Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam) cursed those who are involved in usury; whether it is the person who is giving usury, receiving it, writing the transaction or witnessing it. (Muslim)

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